The Lorax

The summer movies at the local theater started this week. The first movie was "The Lorax". It does have that environmental "save the trees" theme going; but I chose to focus the kids' attention on the failed character of the Once-ler.

The Lorax told the Once-ler that trees fall the way they bend; so to be careful which way he leaned. The Once-ler quickly got caught up in the success of his business and the money he was making. In order to make more money faster, he broke the promise he had made to the Lorax. He didn't bother to think about how his actions would affect other people or things. In the end, he lost everything, ruined the land and negatively affected the future generation.

God's Word says to store up "treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." The next verse says that "where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:210-21)

Warren Weirsbe reminds us that we can use material things for God, "but if we gather material things for ourselves, we will lose them; and we will lose our hearts with them." Storing up treasures in heaven "means to use all that we have for the glory of God."

It is very easy to think that more money will solve all our problems. Yes, we need money to live; but these verses remind us that it should not be the sole focus of our lives. In 1 Timothy chapter 6, Paul warns us about the dangers of covetousness. Wiersbe writes that "wealth does not bring contentment." We cannot depend on wealth for a feeling of peace and security. He continues that "wealth is not lasting." We came into the world with nothing and we will not take any of our personal possessions with us when we leave. When someone passes away, the question to "How much did he leave?" is always the same. Everything! If our basic needs - food and clothing are met, we should be content. A simple lifestyle allows us to truly enjoy what we have. Trying to get rich quick causes people to fall into temptation; to have foolish desires and bring them to destruction. Having money is not a sin; but the desire to have it and to constantly work toward gaining more is.

Contentment is a much better way to live. Had the Once-ler maintained his integrity by keeping his promise to the Lorax, he still would have made a living; the land would have continued to grow and provide for the animals; and children wouldn't glow from swimming in chemical-treated water!

We need to decide which way we will lean. Are we going to give in to covetous desires and seek worldly wealth as a way to find peace and fulfillment? Or are we going to practice gratitude for God's provision and use what He gives us for His glory?

I know I am personally continuing to learn the principle of contentment. I still get wistful at times; but the more I express gratitude for the Lord's provision of what I do have, the less I desire more. I like the following quote:


. . . For then I will be satisfied!

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